"Almost" Gumbo

The smoked sausage in this rich tomato-based sauce will make your taste buds stand up and take notice of our easy-as-can-be gumbo.

Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage, cut in half lengthwise, then cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices
• 4 cups water
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) stewed tomatoes
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen cut okra, thawed and drained
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup uncooked long- or whole-grain rice
• 1/4 cup dry red wine
• 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce

Instructions

1. In a 6-quart soup pot, combine the sausage, water, tomatoes, okra, thyme, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.
    
2. Add the remaining ingredients and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender, stirring occasionally.

Note

Want to make this even more authentic-tasting? Add a pound of cooked and peeled shrimp 5 minutes before serving.